San Francisco Fights Nudists with Pants

Free Willy's right to, well, “be free” has come to an end in the city of San Francisco as the ban on public nudity has been finalized. The once pants optional city will now require residents to keep clothes on in public, with exceptions for specific locations and events, starting in February. Punishments for multiple offenders will include possible jail-time, bringing the era of exhibitionism to a stark close.

San Francisco's Board of Supervisors gave final approval on Tuesday to a ban on public nudity, a measure aimed at curtailing displays of nakedness that some residents and business owners say have gotten out of control in the famously tolerant city.

The board's action during a contentious meeting at City Hall prompted six angry protesters to strip down to their socks.

Standing at the ready with blankets, sheriff's deputies quickly covered up the disrobed demonstrators and led them from the majestic beaux-arts chamber.